Stevie Nicks has never been just a rock icon—her love life has often been as captivating as her music. With a voice that defined a generation and a presence that commanded the stage, her relationships have been deeply intertwined with her artistic journey. Some led to heartbreak, while others fueled the passion behind her most memorable songs.
Her romantic history includes well-known musicians, bandmates, and creative souls who shared her world of music and fame. From whirlwind affairs to lifelong connections, each relationship left a mark on her personal and professional life. Love and loss seemed to walk hand in hand, influencing not only her lyrics but also the dynamics within Fleetwood Mac.
Some romances burned bright but faded fast, while others remained complicated long after they ended. Whether it was a deep connection or a fleeting moment, each chapter in Nicks’ love story offers a glimpse into the heart of a woman who poured everything into her music—and lived a life just as poetic as her lyrics.
Lindsey Buckingham: Love and Tension in Fleetwood Mac
Stevie and Lindsey Buckingham were more than just bandmates—they were once deeply in love. Their relationship began long before Fleetwood Mac, but when they joined the band in the 1970s, personal and professional pressures complicated everything. What started as a musical partnership soon turned into one of rock’s most intense romances.
Nicks later admitted that their relationship suffered under the weight of their rising fame. Despite their struggles, they chose to stay together longer than they wanted, fearing that a breakup would tear the band apart. Their chemistry fueled their music, but behind the scenes, emotions ran high.
By 1976, the tension became too much to ignore. Just before recording Rumours, they finally ended things for good. Their love may have faded, but the heartbreak inspired some of Fleetwood Mac’s most unforgettable songs.
Mick Fleetwood: A Complicated Affair
Stevie and Mick Fleetwood’s connection went beyond music. During the Rumours era, emotions were already running high, and their brief affair only added to the chaos. Fleetwood had recently remarried, while Nicks was navigating her own tangled love life.
Looking back, Nicks admitted she never expected it to happen. The relationship stirred tension within the band, making an already difficult time even more volatile. With so many emotions at play, their personal lives spilled into the music they were creating.
In the end, they knew it couldn’t last. Continuing the affair would have put too much strain on the band, and both chose to walk away. The romance was fleeting, but its impact lingered in the songs and stories that defined Fleetwood Mac.
Don Henley: A Romance of Luxury and Music
After her time with Mick Fleetwood, Stevie found comfort in Don Henley. The Eagles’ drummer brought stability and a taste of the high life, exposing Nicks to a world of luxury she hadn’t known before. Their relationship was a mix of passion, music, and indulgence.
Nicks later admitted that Henley influenced her lifestyle in ways she never forgot. His success and extravagance set a new standard, making it difficult for her to return to a simpler way of living. Their time together shaped her both personally and professionally.
Though their romance eventually ended, their connection didn’t fade. Henley later contributed to Bella Donna, proving that even after love was gone, their musical bond remained strong.
Kim Anderson: A Marriage Born of Grief
In a deeply emotional moment, Stevie married Kim Anderson, the widower of her best friend. The marriage wasn’t driven by love, but rather a shared grief and a desire for mutual support. Both were mourning, and their union seemed like a way to heal together.
However, the marriage quickly proved to be a mistake. Nicks herself described it as “terrible,” as it became clear that the foundation of grief wasn’t enough to sustain a relationship. The decision was driven by the need for comfort, not romance.
Though the marriage ended, Nicks remained close to Anderson’s family. She developed a special bond with Anderson’s godson, Matthew, whom she cherishes to this day, making sure that the connection, though born of sorrow, would last in a different way.
Joe Walsh: A Love Defined by Intensity
From 1983 to 1986, Stevie shared a passionate relationship with Joe Walsh, the Eagles’ guitarist. Their connection was instant and undeniable. Nicks later referred to Walsh as her “greatest love,” reflecting on the deep bond they shared.
However, their love was marred by personal struggles, particularly with substance abuse. The weight of these battles ultimately led to their separation, despite the undeniable chemistry between them. Their connection was both intense and complicated.
Even after their romance ended, Walsh remained an important figure in Nicks’ life. He held a special place in her heart, proving that some loves, no matter how brief, leave a lasting impact.